When Cysts Turn Tumorous: Two Cases of Keratocystic Odontogenic Tumor and a Literature Review

Abstract

Odontogenic keratocysts (OKCs) are developmental odontogenic cysts of epithelial origin. OKC was originally classified as an epithelial developmental cyst of the jaws. It is most commonly found in the mandible and is known for its potential to grow rapidly, often reaching considerable sizes. While typically solitary, multiple OKCs may occur as part of nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome (NBCCS). The World Health Organization (WHO) has since reclassified this lesion from a cyst to a tumor, highlighting its aggressive nature. This change emphasizes the need for clinicians to adopt a correspondingly aggressive approach to its management. The recommended terminology for this lesion is now "keratocystic odontogenic tumor" (KCOT).

This chapter presents two KCOT case reports. The first involves a 45-year-old female with a tumor located in the right posterior maxillary region. The second case features a 27-year-old male with a tumor in the right posterior mandibular region. Surgical enucleation of the cyst was done for both cases. The clinical, radiological, and histopathological characteristics of these tumors are also discussed.